JP7570977B2 - Time switch and method for controlling the time switch - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a time switch that turns a load on and off according to a time schedule set by a user, and a method for controlling the time switch.

A time switch is a device that turns a load on and off according to a time schedule set by a user. As an example of such a time switch, Patent Document 1 discloses a time switch that can select which operation pattern is used to control the load by using an operation pattern selection means provided in the time switch.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 09-269387

Some time switches have an interval function that repeatedly turns on and off at a specified time interval. In such a time switch, if there are multiple programs to realize the interval function, it is desirable to be able to switch between the multiple programs appropriately.

The present invention provides a time switch that can appropriately switch between multiple programs to realize an interval function, and a method for controlling the time switch.

A time switch according to one aspect of the present invention includes a switch section that opens and closes an electrical connection between a load and a power source, a memory section that stores a plurality of programs that execute an interval function, a first acquisition section that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed preferentially among the plurality of programs, and a control section that controls the opening and closing of the switch section, and when the operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, the control section selects from the two or more programs a program to be executed during the overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls the opening and closing of the switch section during the overlapping period based on the selected program.

A method for controlling a time switch according to one aspect of the present invention includes a step of acquiring priority information regarding a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs stored in a storage unit and executing an interval function, and a step of controlling the opening and closing of a switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between a load and a power source, and the step of controlling includes, when the operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selecting from the two or more programs a program to be executed during the overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controlling the opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program.

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to realize a time switch or the like that can appropriately switch between multiple programs to realize an interval function.

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a time switch according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a time switch according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the time switch according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a program for realizing the interval function according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of priority information according to the embodiment. 6A is a diagram showing a first operation example in the case of the priority content No. 1 shown in FIG. 6B is a diagram showing a second operation example in the case of the priority content No. 1 shown in FIG. 7A is a diagram showing a first operation example in the case of the priority content No. 2 shown in FIG. 7B is a diagram showing a second operation example in the case of the priority content No. 2 shown in FIG. 8A is a diagram showing a first operation example in the case of the priority content No. 3 shown in FIG. 8B is a diagram showing a second operation example in the case of the priority content No. 3 shown in FIG. 9A is a diagram showing a first operation example in the case of the priority content No. 4 shown in FIG. 9B is a diagram showing a second operation example in the case of the priority content No. 4 shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a time switch according to a modification of the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a first example of a program switching operation of a time switch according to a modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a second example of the program switching operation of the time switch according to the modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a third example of the program switching operation of the time switch according to the modified example of the embodiment.

The following embodiments are described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are all comprehensive or specific examples. The numerical values, shapes, components, component placement and connection forms, steps, and order of steps shown in the following embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the present invention. For example, in this specification, terms indicating relationships between elements such as "simultaneity," as well as numerical values and numerical ranges, are not expressions that express only strict meanings, but are expressions that include substantially equivalent ranges, for example, differences of about a few percent (for example, about 5%). In addition, among the components in the following embodiments, components that are not described in independent claims are described as optional components.

In addition, each figure is a schematic diagram and is not necessarily an exact illustration. Therefore, for example, the scales of each figure do not necessarily match. In addition, in each figure, the same reference numerals are used for substantially the same configuration, and duplicate explanations are omitted or simplified.

(Embodiment)
Hereinafter, a time switch according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9B.

[1. Time switch configuration]
First, the configuration of a time switch according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Fig. 1 is an external perspective view of a time switch 10 according to the present embodiment. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the time switch 10 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the time switch 10 includes a terminal unit 11, a switch unit 12, a setting reception unit 13, a display unit 14, a memory unit 15, a control unit 16, a timing unit 17, a communication unit 18, and a sensor unit 19. The time switch 10 is a device that turns on and off the electrical connection between a load (not shown) and a power source (not shown) connected to the terminal unit 11 (hereinafter also referred to as simply "turning a load on (off)") according to a time schedule set through the setting reception unit 13. Turning on and off is also referred to as opening and closing.

A load and a power source are connected to the terminal unit 11. The load includes an interval operation device. The load is a device capable of performing an interval operation in which the load is repeatedly turned on and off at a predetermined time interval, and is, for example, a fountain (a pump for a fountain), a spray device that generates mist, etc., but is not limited thereto, and may be a street light, a light, a signboard, etc. The terminal unit 11 has a structure for fixing the load and the power source, for example, with a screw. There are no particular limitations on the circuit configuration of the terminal unit 11. The circuit configuration of the terminal unit 11 may be a voltage output configuration in which the voltage of the power source is applied between the terminals to which the load is connected, or a voltageless output configuration in which the voltage of the power source is not applied between the terminals to which the load is connected. Multiple loads may be attached to the terminal unit 11.

The switch unit 12 is an opening/closing unit that turns on and off the electrical connection between the load and the power source connected to the terminal unit 11. The switch unit 12 is realized, for example, by a relay element and a drive circuit for the relay element, but may also be realized by a power transistor and a drive circuit for the power transistor. The contact configuration of the switch unit 12 is not particularly limited. The switch unit 12 may have a c-contact configuration (i.e., single-pole double-throw) or an a-contact configuration (i.e., single-pole single-throw). Note that when multiple loads are attached to the terminal unit 11, the time switch 10 may have multiple switch units 12 corresponding to the multiple loads.

The setting reception unit 13 is a user interface that receives various settings related to the time switch 10. The setting reception unit 13 receives settings for the on time when the switch unit 12 turns on and the off time when the switch unit 12 turns off (one example of a setting related to the operation of the switch unit 12). The setting reception unit 13 may also receive at least one of a plurality of programs that execute the interval function and priority information related to a program that is to be executed preferentially among the plurality of programs. The setting reception unit 13 may, for example, receive (acquire) the priority information. For example, the setting reception unit 13 may acquire the priority information by receiving an operation for setting the priority information.

The interval function, which will be described in detail later, is an operation that repeatedly turns on and off for a certain period of time. Each of the multiple programs that execute the interval function is a program that can be executed by acquiring (setting) the start and end times of the program, the on period during which power is supplied, and the off period during which power is not supplied.

The setting reception unit 13 is realized, for example, by a hardware key (hardware button) and a slide switch, but may also be realized by a touch panel or the like. In this embodiment, the setting reception unit 13 is realized by including a plurality of hardware buttons (hereinafter also referred to as buttons). The setting reception unit 13 may also receive various settings by voice-based information. The setting reception unit 13 is an example of a first acquisition unit. Note that, hereinafter, the plurality of programs that execute the interval function will also be simply referred to as a plurality of programs.

The display unit 14 displays information for the user to confirm the setting contents, information indicating which of the multiple programs is currently being executed, etc. The display unit 14 displays, for example, information indicating a program executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods of two or more of the multiple programs overlap. The display unit 14 may also display, for example, information indicating that an overlapping period is in which the operation periods of two or more of the multiple programs overlap, information indicating that control is being performed by a selected program during the overlapping period, etc. The display unit 14 displays, for example, each of the multiple programs in a different display mode. The information indicating the program is, for example, but is not limited to, a program number, the control contents of the program, etc. The operation period is the period between the start time and end time of the program that executes the interval function.

The display unit 14 is realized, for example, by a liquid crystal panel, but may also be realized by other display panels such as an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) panel. The display unit 14 may also have a backlight.

The memory unit 15 is a storage device in which various settings accepted by the setting acceptance unit 13 are stored as setting information. The memory unit 15 stores a plurality of programs for implementing the interval function, and priority information (see FIG. 5 described later) regarding which of the plurality of programs is to be executed with priority. The plurality of programs and the priority information are examples of setting information.

The storage unit 15 may also store one or more programs that do not implement an interval function (e.g., a program that turns on and off once each). The storage unit 15 is implemented, for example, by a semiconductor memory.

The control unit 16 is a control device that controls the on and off of the switch unit 12 (i.e., the on and off of the electrical connection between the load and the power source). The control unit 16 transmits a control signal to the switch unit 12 based on multiple programs stored in the memory unit 15.

Furthermore, when the operation periods of two or more of the multiple programs overlap, the control unit 16 selects one of the two or more programs to be executed during the overlapping period based on the priority information stored in the storage unit 15, and controls the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 during the overlapping period based on the selected one program. It can also be said that when the operation periods of two or more of the multiple programs overlap, the control unit 16 determines one of the two or more programs to be executed based on the priority information. In this way, when the operation periods of two or more programs overlap, the control unit 16 does not control the operation of two or more programs based on uniformly set conditions. For example, the control unit 16 can control one program according to the user's intention based on priority information input by the user.

The control unit 16 may further select one program to be executed during the overlapping period from among two or more programs based on the measurement results obtained from the sensor unit 19. It can also be said that the control unit 16 determines which of the two or more programs to select as the one program based on the measurement results obtained from the sensor unit 19. The control unit 16 has a function as a determination unit.

The control unit 16 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer or a processor. The memory unit 15 may be built into the control unit 16. The memory unit 15 may be, for example, a non-volatile memory built into the microcomputer.

The timekeeping unit 17 is a timer device that measures the current date and time. The timekeeping unit 17 is realized, for example, by a real-time clock.

The communication unit 18 is a communication module that allows the time switch 10 to communicate with an external device. The time switch 10 may, for example, acquire at least one of a program and priority information from an external device through communication. The communication unit 18 functions as a first acquisition unit that acquires priority information through communication. Note that the external device is, for example, a terminal device such as a smartphone or a personal computer, but is not limited to this.

The communication unit 18 may also transmit to an external device information for the user to check the settings, information indicating which of the multiple programs is currently being executed, etc. The communication unit 18 may transmit to an external device, for example, information indicating one of the multiple programs being executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods of two or more of the multiple programs overlap. In this way, the communication unit 18 may function as a transmission unit. The information indicating the currently executing program is, for example, a program number, the program contents, etc. The information indicating the currently executing program may also be, for example, information indicating that a program that realizes an interval function is being executed.

The communication method used for communication by the communication unit 18 is not particularly limited, and may be wireless communication or wired communication. In addition, the communication standard used for communication is not particularly limited.

The sensor unit 19 measures the surrounding environment (usage environment) of the time switch 10 or the surrounding environment (usage environment) of the load connected to the time switch 10. The sensor unit 19 is configured to be able to measure at least one of the illuminance, temperature, humidity, wind speed, and object (e.g., person) around the time switch 10 or the load connected to the time switch 10. The sensor unit 19 is configured to include at least one of an illuminance sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a wind speed sensor, and a human presence sensor, for example.

The sensor unit 19 may also perform electrical measurements in the time switch 10. The sensor unit 19 may include, for example, a sensor (e.g., a current sensor or a voltage sensor) that measures the current or voltage between the power source and the load when the switch unit 12 is turned on (closed). The sensor measures, for example, the contact current or contact voltage.

This allows the control unit 16 to determine whether the contact is being used for a load that exceeds the rated value of the contact, such as the switching capacity. Note that information such as the switching capacity may be stored in the memory unit 15.

The time switch 10 does not have to include a sensor unit 19.

[2. Time Switch Operation]
Next, the operation of the time switch 10 configured as above will be described with reference to Fig. 3 to Fig. 9B. Fig. 3 is a flowchart showing the operation of the time switch 10 according to the present embodiment. In Fig. 3, an example in which various settings are acquired via the setting reception unit 13 will be described.

As shown in FIG. 3, first, the setting reception unit 13 receives the initial settings (S11). The initial settings include setting the current time and the area in which the time switch 10 is used.

Next, the setting reception unit 13 receives a plurality of programs for executing the interval function (S12). When the setting reception unit 13 receives the settings related to the programs, the setting information related to the programs is stored in the storage unit 15.

Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of a program for realizing the interval function according to this embodiment. Two programs, numbered "1" and "2", are shown in Figure 4. The numbers "1" and "2" are identification information for identifying the programs, and are examples of program numbers. Hereinafter, the program numbered "1" will also be referred to as program 1 or the first program, and the program numbered "2" will also be referred to as program 2 or the second program.

As shown in FIG. 4, the program includes, for example, settings for the time or duration of each of the interval start time (start time), interval end time (end time), interval on period (on period), and interval off period (off period). The program may also include, for example, settings related to the days of the week on which the program operates.

For example, program 1 shown in FIG. 4 is a program that turns on for one minute every 15 minutes between 10:00 and 14:00 every day from Monday to Sunday. Program 2 shown in FIG. 4 is a program that turns on for one minute every 30 minutes between 14:00 and 17:00 every day from Monday to Sunday.

Here, the end time of program 1 and the start time of program 2 are the same. For example, if the operation periods of two programs overlap in part and the first of the two programs is uniformly executed with priority, at 2 p.m., the end of program 1 takes priority over the start of program 2, so program 2 is not executed. In this way, in the past, when the operation periods of two programs overlap, the program that runs later may not be executed. In other words, in the past, it may not be possible to switch between multiple programs appropriately. Also, it is possible to set the end time of program 1 before the start time of program 2 so that the operation periods of programs 1 and 2 do not overlap so that program 2 is executed after program 1, but setting the end time of program 1 is complicated and there is a possibility of setting the time incorrectly.

Therefore, in this embodiment, a time switch 10 is realized that can appropriately switch between multiple programs even when some of the operating periods overlap as described above.

Referring again to FIG. 3, next, the setting reception unit 13 receives priority information for the multiple programs (S13). When the setting reception unit 13 receives the setting for the program to be executed with priority among the multiple programs, the priority information for the multiple programs is stored in the storage unit 15.

Figure 5 shows an example of priority information in this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 5, the priority information includes priority content (rules) regarding the prioritized programs. For example, the priority content may be set in advance and stored in the storage unit 15, and in step S13, a selection of which priority content to control may be accepted.

Examples of priority include "give priority to programs with lower program numbers," "give priority to programs that start earlier," "give priority to programs that run later," "give priority to a specific program," and "give priority to the termination of programs that run later." Note that priority is not limited to these.

"Prefer lower program number" indicates that when the operating periods of two or more programs partially overlap, priority is given to execution of the program with the lowest (smallest) program number; "Prefer earlier started program" indicates that when the operating periods of two or more programs partially overlap, priority is given to execution of the program that started the earliest. Also, "Prefer later running program" indicates that when the operating periods of two or more programs partially overlap, priority is given to execution of the program that started the latest; "Prefer specific program" indicates that when the operating periods of two or more programs partially overlap, priority is given to execution of a specific program set by the user; and "Prefer later running program termination" indicates that when the operating periods of two or more programs partially overlap, priority is given to the termination time of the program that started the latest.

The priority content may include content other than the above. For example, it may be "give priority to the program with the larger program number" or "give priority to the program that runs first."

Referring again to FIG. 3, next, the control unit 16 controls the switch unit 12 based on the program (S14). The control unit 16 starts the operation of one of the multiple programs whose start time has come, while none of the multiple programs are in operation. The control unit 16 controls the on and off of the switch unit 12 based on the program stored in the storage unit 15. The control unit 16 turns on the switch unit 12 when the current time measured by the clock unit 17 becomes the start time of the program. The control unit 16 also turns off the switch unit 12 when the elapsed time since the switch unit 12 was turned on, measured by the clock unit 17, has passed the on period. The control unit 16 also turns on the switch unit 12 again when the elapsed time since the switch unit 12 was turned off, measured by the clock unit 17, has passed the off period. In this way, the control unit 16 repeats turning on and off until the end time is reached.

Next, the control unit 16 determines whether two or more programs overlap (S15). For example, the control unit 16 determines whether the operation period of a currently running program overlaps with the operation period of another program. The control unit 16 makes the determination in step S15 based on, for example, the start time, end time, and operation day of the week.

Next, if two or more programs overlap (Yes in S15), the control unit 16 determines which program (an example of one program) is to be executed preferentially from the two or more overlapping programs based on the priority information, and controls the determined program to be executed during the overlapping period (S16); if two or more programs do not overlap (No in S15), the control unit 16 continues the interval operation corresponding to that program until the end time of the currently running program is reached. Determining one program means selecting or identifying one program from two or more programs.

The determination in step S15 may be performed periodically. For example, the control unit 16 may perform the determination in step S15 at predetermined time intervals during the operation of a program for implementing the interval function.

The specific operation of step S16 will now be described with reference to Figures 6A to 9B. Figure 6A is a diagram showing a first example of operation in the case of priority content No. 1 shown in Figure 5. Figure 6A shows an example of operation in the case where the start time of program 2 is within the operation period of program 1, and the end time of program 2 is after the operation period of program 1.

The first on/off period is the operating period of program 1, and the second on/off period is the operating period of program 2. Times t1 to t3 are the operating period (first period) of program 1, times t2 to t4 are the operating period (second period) of program 2, and times t2 to t3 are the overlapping period in which the operating periods of program 1 and program 2 overlap. Note that Figures 7A, 8A, and 9A also show examples of operation in the case of similar operating periods.

Figure 6B is a diagram showing a second example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 1 shown in Figure 5. Figure 6B shows an example of operation in the case where the start time and end time of program 1 are included in the operation period of program 2, that is, the operation period of program 1 is included in the operation period of program 2.

Times t2 to t3 are the operation period (first period) of program 1, times t1 to t4 are the operation period (second period) of program 2, and times t2 to t3 are the overlapping period. Note that Figures 7B, 8B, and 9B also show examples of operation in similar operation periods.

The control content in the figure shows the actual control content based on the judgment result of the control unit 16.

As shown in FIG. 6A, at time t1, it is the start time of program 1, and program 1 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 2. Based on the priority information of "lower program number priority", the control unit 16 determines that program 1 is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, the control unit 16 selects program 1 from programs 1 and 2 based on the priority information. It can also be said that the control unit 16 specifies that the program to be executed among programs 1 and 2 is program 1. In other words, at time t2, program 1 continues to be executed, and program 2 is not executed. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, and program 1 is switched to program 2, and control of the switch unit 12 based on program 2 is started. At time t3, the control that prioritizes program 1 (control based on priority information) ends, so program 2 can be executed after time t3. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation ends. Thus, in the case of Figure 6A, the programs are switched in the order of Program 1 and Program 2, Program 1 is executed during the overlap period, and Program 2 is executed after the overlap period.

In this way, the multiple programs include program 1 (an example of a first program) whose operating period is the first period, and program 2 (an example of a second program) whose operating period partially overlaps with the first period and whose start time is within the first period and whose end time is later than the first period, and program 1 has a lower program number than program 2. In this case, the control unit 16 may select program 1, which has the lower program number, of programs 1 and 2 as the single program during the overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, and control the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 with program 1 over the first period. Note that the priority information includes giving priority to the program with the lower program number.

This makes it possible to prevent program 2 from being executed even if the user inputs an incorrect start time for program 2, for example.

As shown in FIG. 6B, at time t1, it is the start time of program 2, and program 2 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 1. Based on the priority information of "lower program number is prioritized", the control unit 16 determines that program 1 is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, based on the priority information, the control unit 16 selects program 1 from programs 1 and 2. That is, at time t2, the program to be executed is switched from program 2 to program 1. Between time t2 and time t3, the control of the switch unit 12 is performed based on program 1. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, and program 1 is switched to program 2, and control of the switch unit 12 based on program 2 is started. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation is completed. Thus, in the case of FIG. 6B, the programs are switched in the order of program 2, program 1, and program 2, and program 1 is executed during the overlapping period.

In this way, the multiple programs include program 1 whose operating period is a first period and program 2 whose operating period is a second period that includes the first period, and program 1 has a lower program number than program 2. In this case, the control unit 16 may select program 1, which has the lower program number, from programs 1 and 2 as the first program during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, and control the switch unit 12 with program 1 during the overlapping period in the first period, and control the switch unit 12 with program 2, which has been switched from program 1, during the period after the overlapping period in the first period. The priority information includes giving priority to the program with the lower program number.

As shown in Figures 6A and 6B, each of the multiple programs is associated with a different program number, the priority information includes giving priority to a program with a lower program number, and the control unit 16 may select, as one program, the program with the lowest program number among two or more programs during an overlapping period.

Figure 7A is a diagram showing a first example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 2 shown in Figure 5. Figure 7B is a diagram showing a second example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 2 shown in Figure 5.

As shown in FIG. 7A, at time t1, it is the start time of program 1, and program 1 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 2. Based on the priority information of "prioritize the program that starts earlier", the control unit 16 determines that between programs 1 and 2, program 1, which has an earlier start time, is to be prioritized. In other words, based on the priority information, the control unit 16 selects program 1 from programs 1 and 2. That is, at time t2, program 1 continues to be executed, and program 2 is not executed. The control after time t2 is the same as in FIG. 6A, and a description thereof will be omitted. Thus, in the case of FIG. 7A, the programs are switched in the order of program 1 and program 2, program 1 is executed during the overlap period, and program 2 is executed after the overlap period.

As shown in FIG. 7B, at time t1, it is the start time of program 2, and program 2 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 1. Based on the priority information of "early started program is prioritized", the control unit 16 determines that program 2 is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, based on the priority information, the control unit 16 selects program 2 from programs 1 and 2. That is, at time t2, program 2 continues to be executed, and program 1 is not executed. Between time t2 and time t3, the switch unit 12 is controlled based on program 2. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, but since the operation of program 2 is prioritized, program 2 continues to be executed even after time t3. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation ends. In this way, in the case of FIG. 7B, only program 2 is executed.

As shown in Figures 7A and 7B, a start time is set for each of the multiple programs, the priority information includes giving priority to the program with the earlier start time, and the control unit 16 may select, as one program, the program with the earliest start time among two or more programs during the overlapping period.

Figure 8A is a diagram showing a first example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 3 shown in Figure 5. Figure 8B is a diagram showing a second example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 3 shown in Figure 5.

As shown in FIG. 8A, at time t1, it is the start time of program 1, and program 1 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 2. Based on the priority information of "prioritize the program that runs later", the control unit 16 determines that program 2, which runs later (has a later start time), is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, based on the priority information, the control unit 16 selects program 2 from programs 1 and 2. That is, at time t2, the program to be executed is switched from program 1 to program 2. Between time t2 and time t3, the switch unit 12 is controlled based on program 2. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, but since the operation of program 2 is prioritized, program 2 continues to be executed after time t3. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation ends. Thus, in the case of FIG. 8A, the programs are switched in the order of program 1 and program 2, and program 2 is executed during the overlapping period.

As shown in FIG. 8B, at time t1, it is the start time of program 2, and program 2 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 1. Based on the priority information of "prioritize the program that runs later", the control unit 16 determines that program 1 is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, based on the priority information, the control unit 16 selects program 1 from programs 1 and 2. That is, at time t2, the program to be executed is switched from program 2 to program 1. Between time t2 and time t3, the control of the switch unit 12 is performed based on program 1. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, and program 1 is switched to program 2, and control of the switch unit 12 based on program 2 is started again. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation is ended. Thus, in the case of FIG. 8B, the programs are switched in the order of program 2, program 1, and program 2, and program 1 is executed during the overlapping period, and program 2 is executed during the period other than the overlapping period.

As shown in Figures 8A and 8B, a start time is set for each of the multiple programs, the priority information includes giving priority to a program that starts operating later, and the control unit 16 may select, as one program, the program with the latest start time among two or more programs during an overlapping period.

Figure 9A is a diagram showing a first example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 4 shown in Figure 5. Figure 9B is a diagram showing a second example of operation in the case of the priority content No. 4 shown in Figure 5. Note that the specific program in the priority information "Give priority to a specific program" is assumed to be program 2.

As shown in FIG. 9A, at time t1, it is the start time of program 1, and program 1 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 2. Based on the priority information of "prioritize a specific program", the control unit 16 determines that program 2, which is a specific program, is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, the control unit 16 selects program 2 from programs 1 and 2 based on the priority information. That is, at time t2, program 1 is switched to program 2, and between time t2 and time t3, the switch unit 12 is controlled based on program 2. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, but since the operation of program 2 is prioritized, program 2 continues to be executed after time t3. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation ends. Thus, in the case of FIG. 9A, the programs are switched in the order of program 1 and program 2, and program 2 is executed after time t2, which includes the overlapping period.

As shown in FIG. 9B, at time t1, it is the start time of program 2, and program 2 is executed. Next, at time t2, it is the start time of program 1. Based on the priority information of "prioritize specific program", the control unit 16 determines that program 2, which is a specific program, is to be prioritized among programs 1 and 2. In other words, the control unit 16 selects program 2 from programs 1 and 2 based on the priority information. That is, at time t2, it is the start time of program 1, but since the operation of program 2 is prioritized, program 2 continues to be executed after time t2. Next, at time t3, it is the end time of program 1, but since the operation of program 2 is prioritized, program 2 continues to be executed after time t3. Next, at time t4, it is the end time of program 2, and the interval operation ends. In this way, in the case of FIG. 9B, only program 2 is executed.

As shown in Figures 9A and 9B, the priority information may include prioritizing a specific program among multiple programs, and the control unit 16 may select a specific program among two or more programs as one program during an overlapping period.

As described above, the control unit 16 can determine which program to execute with priority based on priority information set by the user or the like, and can appropriately switch between multiple programs to achieve the interval function. This enables a variety of operations in the time switch 10.

The control unit 16 may use the measurement results of the sensor unit 19 in addition to the priority information acquired via the setting reception unit 13, or may use the measurement results instead of the priority conditions, to determine one program to be executed when the operation periods of two or more programs overlap. An example of the operation when the measurement results are used is illustrated in the following modified example.

The priority information may include giving priority to the termination of a program that runs last, and the control unit 16 may select the program that runs last among two or more programs as one program during the overlapping period.

[3. Effects, etc.]
As described above, the time switch 10 according to the present embodiment includes the switch unit 12 that opens and closes the electrical connection between the load and the power source, the memory unit 15 that stores a plurality of programs that execute an interval function, the setting reception unit 13 (an example of a first acquisition unit) that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed with priority among the plurality of programs, and the control unit 16 that controls the opening and closing of the switch unit 12. When the operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, the control unit 16 selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during the overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 during the overlapping period based on the selected one program.

As a result, during overlapping periods when the operating periods overlap, one program is executed with priority, and during periods other than the overlapping periods, the program whose operating period is that period is executed. In other words, it is possible to switch programs between overlapping periods and periods other than the overlapping periods based on priority information. Thus, the time switch 10 according to this embodiment can appropriately switch between multiple programs to achieve the interval function.

Also, for example, the setting reception unit 13 may obtain priority information by receiving an operation for setting priority information.

This allows the setting reception unit 13 to obtain priority information through direct user operation of the time switch 10.

Also, for example, the setting reception unit 13 may obtain the priority information via communication.

This allows the setting reception unit 13 to obtain the priority information even when the user is remote from the time switch 10. For example, when updating the priority information, the priority information can be stored in the storage unit 15 without the user having to move to the location where the time switch 10 is installed. Therefore, the time switch 10 can easily update the priority information, making it easier to switch programs more appropriately.

The time switch 10 also includes a sensor unit 19 (an example of a sensor) that measures the surrounding environment. The control unit 16 then selects one program based on the measurement results obtained from the sensor unit 19.

This allows the time switch 10 to control the switch unit 12 with one of the multiple programs during the overlapping period, which is in accordance with the surrounding environment. In other words, the multiple programs can be appropriately switched between in terms of being able to switch to a program in accordance with the surrounding environment. For example, depending on weather conditions, it may be desired to operate the time switch 10 with a different interval sequence. In such a case, the time switch 10 can switch to a program in accordance with the weather conditions.

For example, the time switch 10 further includes a display unit 14 that displays information indicating one program during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to display to the user via the display unit 14 which programs are running during the overlapping period.

For example, the time switch 10 further includes a communication unit 18 (an example of a transmission unit) that transmits information indicating a program to an external device during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to notify a remote user of which programs are running during the overlapping period.

Also, for example, each of the multiple programs may be associated with a different program number, and the priority information may include giving priority to a program with a lower program number. Then, the control unit 16 may select the program with the lowest program number among the two or more programs as one program during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to appropriately switch between multiple programs, with a view to prioritizing programs with lower program numbers.

Also, for example, a start time may be set for each of the multiple programs, and the priority information may include giving priority to a program with an earlier start time. Then, the control unit 16 may select, as one program, the program with the earliest start time among two or more programs during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to appropriately switch between multiple programs, with a view to prioritizing the program with the earliest start time.

For example, each of the multiple programs may have a start time set, and the priority information may include giving priority to a program that starts operating later. Then, the control unit 16 may select, as one program, the program with the latest start time among the two or more programs during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to appropriately switch between multiple programs while prioritizing the program that will start operating later.

For example, the priority information may include prioritizing a specific program from among multiple programs. Then, the control unit 16 may select the specific program from among two or more programs as one program during the overlapping period.

This allows the time switch 10 to appropriately switch between multiple programs while prioritizing a specific program.

Also, for example, the multiple programs may include a first program whose operating period is a first period, and a second program whose operating period overlaps partially with the first period and whose operating period starts within the first period and ends in a second period after the first period, the first program having a program number lower than the second program, and the priority information may include prioritizing the program with the lower program number. Then, during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, the control unit 16 may select the first program with the lower program number from the first program and the second program as one program, and control the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 with the first program over the first period.

This allows the time switch 10 to switch between the first program and the second program in that order.

Also, for example, the multiple programs may include a first program whose operating period is a first period and a second program whose operating period is a second period that includes the first period, the first program having a program number lower than the second program, and the priority information may include prioritizing the program with the lower program number. Then, during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, the control unit 16 may select the first program having the lower program number from the first program and the second program as one program, control the switch unit 12 with the first program during the overlapping period in the first period, and control the switch unit 12 with the second program switched from the first program during the period after the overlapping period in the first period.

This allows the time switch 10 to switch between programs in the following order: the first program, the second program, and then the first program.

As described above, the method for controlling the time switch 10 according to this embodiment includes a step (S13) of acquiring priority information on a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs stored in the memory unit 15 and executing an interval function, and steps (S14 to S16) of controlling the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 that opens and closes the electrical connection between the load and the power source. When the operating periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, the control step selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during the overlapping period in which the operating periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls the opening and closing of the switch unit 12 during the overlapping period based on the selected one program.

This provides the same effect as the time switch 10 described above.

(Modification of the embodiment)
The time switch according to this modification will be described below with reference to Figures 10 to 13. Note that the following description will focus on the differences from the embodiment, and descriptions of the same or similar content as the embodiment will be omitted or simplified.

First, the configuration of the time switch according to this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. 10. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of a time switch 10a according to this modified example. The time switch 10a according to this modified example differs from the time switch 10 according to the embodiment in that it includes a sensor information acquisition unit 20 instead of a sensor unit 19.

As shown in FIG. 10, the time switch 10a includes a terminal unit 11, a switch unit 12, a setting reception unit 13, a display unit 14, a memory unit 15, a control unit 16, a timing unit 17, a communication unit 18, and a sensor information acquisition unit 20. The time switch 10a does not include the sensor unit 19 described in the embodiment, and is configured to acquire measurement results from a sensor unit provided outside the time switch 10a.

The sensor information acquisition unit 20 acquires the measurement results from an external sensor unit. The sensor information acquisition unit 20 acquires the measurement results from, for example, the time switch 10 or a sensor unit that measures the surrounding environment of a load connected to the time switch 10. The sensor information acquisition unit 20 acquires the measurement results, for example, by communication (for example, wireless communication). The sensor information acquisition unit 20 includes, for example, a communication module. The communication method used for communication by the sensor information acquisition unit 20 is not particularly limited, and may be wireless communication or wired communication. In addition, the communication standard used for communication is not particularly limited. The sensor information acquisition unit 20 may be realized by the communication unit 18. The sensor information acquisition unit 20 is an example of a second acquisition unit.

The control unit 16 selects which of two or more programs to set as the single program based on the measurement results acquired via the sensor information acquisition unit 20.

The storage unit 15 stores priority information for selecting a prioritized program based on the measurement result. The priority information is, for example, a table in which the measurement result is associated with information indicating the program prioritized for that measurement result. When the measurement result is temperature, the priority information may include prioritizing program 1 of programs 1 and 2 when the temperature is equal to or higher than a threshold value, and prioritizing program 2 of programs 1 and 2 when the temperature is less than the threshold value. The priority information may be acquired, for example, via the setting reception unit 13.

Next, the operation of the time switch 10a configured as described above will be described with reference to Figs. 11 to 13. Fig. 11 is a flow chart showing a first example of the program switching operation of the time switch 10a according to this modified example. Note that, although the operation of the time switch 10a will be described below, the operation is similar when using the measurement results of the sensor unit 19 provided in the time switch 10. Also, Figs. 11 to 13 will explain the case where the sensor unit is a temperature sensor, and the control unit 16 obtains the ambient temperature of the load as the measurement result.

As shown in FIG. 11, when the control unit 16 is controlling the switch unit 12 based on the program whose start time has arrived (S21), the control unit 16 acquires the measurement result via the sensor information acquisition unit 20 (S22). The control unit 16 acquires the temperature around the load as the measurement result.

Next, the control unit 16 acquires priority information (S23). The priority information is acquired, for example, before the switch unit 12 is controlled based on a program, and is stored in the storage unit 15. The control unit 16 acquires the priority information, for example, by reading the priority information from the storage unit 15.

Next, the control unit 16 determines whether two or more programs overlap (S24). Step S24 is the same process as step S13 shown in FIG. 3, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

Next, if two or more programs overlap (Yes in S24), the control unit 16 determines which of the two or more overlapping programs is to be executed with priority based on the priority information, and controls to execute the determined program (S25); if two or more programs do not overlap (No in S24), the control unit 16 continues the interval operation corresponding to the currently running program until the end time of that program is reached.

For example, a case will be described in which priority information is acquired indicating that program 1 is prioritized among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature is equal to or higher than the threshold value in step S23, and program 2 is prioritized among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature is lower than the threshold value, and it is determined that programs 1 and 2 overlap in step S24. In this case, in step S25, the control unit 16 determines that program 1 is prioritized among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature acquired in step S22 is equal to or higher than the threshold value, and determines that program 2 is prioritized among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature acquired in step S22 is lower than the threshold value, and controls the switch unit 12 during the overlap period based on the program determined to be prioritized (an example of one program). In other words, in step S25, the control unit 16 selects program 1 among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature acquired in step S22 is equal to or higher than the threshold value, and selects program 2 among programs 1 and 2 when the temperature acquired in step S22 is lower than the threshold value.

In this way, the control unit 16 may dynamically change the prioritized program depending on the external environment.

This makes it possible to change the operating conditions (priority conditions) of the interval depending on the external environment, so that the on/off of the switch unit 12 can be controlled by a program that is appropriate to the external environment at that time.

The processes of steps S22 and S24 may be performed periodically. For example, the control unit 16 may obtain the measurement results at a predetermined time interval and perform the determination of step S24 at the predetermined time interval.

As described above, the time switch 10a according to this modified example further includes a sensor information acquisition unit 20 (an example of a second acquisition unit) that acquires measurement results from a sensor that measures the surrounding environment. The control unit 16 then selects one program based on the measurement results acquired via the sensor information acquisition unit 20.

This allows the time switch 10a to control the switch unit 12 with a program among multiple programs that corresponds to the surrounding environment during the overlapping period. In other words, the time switch 10a can appropriately switch between multiple programs in that it can switch to a program that corresponds to the surrounding environment.

Next, another operation example according to this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing a second example of the program switching operation of the time switch 10a according to this modified example. Note that in the operation example shown in FIG. 12, there is one program, and an example will be described in which it is determined whether or not to continue execution of that program based on the measurement results.

In the case of the operation example shown in FIG. 12, in step S23, the control unit 16 acquires priority information including, for example, stopping control of the currently running program when the temperature is below a threshold value. The priority information here is information indicating that either continuing or stopping control of the program is prioritized. Note that whether the temperature is equal to or higher than a threshold value is an example of a predetermined condition.

Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the measurement result acquired in step S22 satisfies a predetermined condition (S26). For example, if the temperature, which is an example of the measurement result, is equal to or higher than a threshold value, the control unit 16 determines that the measurement result satisfies the predetermined condition, and if the temperature is less than the threshold value, the control unit 16 determines that the measurement result does not satisfy the predetermined condition.

Next, if the measurement result satisfies a predetermined condition (Yes in S26), the control unit 16 stops the operation of the currently operating program based on the priority information (S27) and ends the operation. If the measurement result does not satisfy the predetermined condition (No in S26), the control unit 16 continues the operation of the currently operating program, and ends the operation when the end time of the program is reached.

The processes of steps S22 and S26 may be performed periodically. For example, the control unit 16 may obtain the measurement results at predetermined time intervals and perform the determination of step S26 at each predetermined time interval.

The control unit 16 may continue to obtain the measurement results even after step S27. Then, if the temperature becomes equal to or higher than the threshold value after step S27 (if the specified condition is satisfied), the control unit 16 may resume operation of the program stopped in step S27. This makes it possible to automatically control the program that executes the interval function when the measurement result satisfies the specified condition.

Note that steps S22 to S26 may be performed before step S21, and if step S26 is No, step S21 may be performed. In other words, the determination in step S26 is not limited to being used to determine whether or not to continue control by the currently running program, but may also be used to determine whether or not to start control by that program.

As described above, the control unit 16 may determine not to operate or to stop the operation of a program (an example of a program) if the measurement result satisfies a predetermined condition.

Next, another example of operation according to this modified example will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing a third example of the program switching operation of the time switch 10a according to this modified example. Note that the example of operation shown in FIG. 13 describes an example of determining whether or not to add another program that executes an interval function based on the measurement results during execution of a program that executes an interval function.

In the case of the operation example shown in FIG. 13, in step S23, the control unit 16 acquires priority information including, for example, adding a program (e.g., a dedicated program) different from the currently operating program when the temperature is equal to or higher than a threshold value. The priority information here is information indicating that the control of the program to be added is to be prioritized over the control of the currently operating program.

Whether the temperature is equal to or higher than a threshold is one example of a predetermined condition. The added program may be a program whose use is prohibited if the predetermined condition is not met. A dedicated program is, for example, a program that can execute an appropriate interval operation when the temperature is equal to or higher than a threshold. The dedicated program is preset.

When the measurement result satisfies a predetermined condition (Yes in S26), the control unit 16 determines that a dedicated program should be used for control based on the priority information, controls to execute the determined dedicated program (S28), and ends the operation when the end time of the dedicated program is reached. In step S28, the control unit 16 switches from the program used in step S21 to the dedicated program and continues the interval operation.

In addition, if the measurement result does not satisfy the predetermined condition (No in S26), the control unit 16 continues the interval operation according to the currently running program until the end time of the program.

The processes of steps S22 and S26 may be performed periodically. For example, the control unit 16 may obtain the measurement results at predetermined time intervals and perform the determination of step S26 at each predetermined time interval.

The control unit 16 may continue to obtain the measurement results even after step S28. Then, if the temperature falls below the threshold value after step S28 (if the specified condition is no longer satisfied), the control unit 16 may return to operation with the program that was running in step S21. This makes it possible to automatically perform control with a dedicated program when the measurement result satisfies the specified condition.

As described above, the control unit 16 may add a program to realize the interval function when the measurement results satisfy a predetermined condition.

Other Embodiments
Although the time switch and the like according to one or more aspects have been described based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. As long as the gist of the present invention is not deviated from, various modifications conceived by a person skilled in the art and forms constructed by combining components in different embodiments may also be included in the present invention.

For example, in the above embodiment, an example was described in which a sensor unit is built into the time switch, but the sensor unit may be added later. For example, a connection terminal unit to which an external device such as a sensor unit is connected may be provided in the time switch, and the sensor unit may be detachably attached to the connection terminal unit. The connection terminal unit is configured with a terminal that corresponds to the standard of the connection terminal of the sensor unit to be connected, and is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) terminal, a LIGHTNING (registered trademark) terminal, or a terminal of various connectors.

In addition, the sensor possessed by the sensor unit in the above embodiment is not limited to the sensors exemplified in the above embodiment, and may be, for example, at least one of a carbon dioxide concentration sensor, a vibration sensor, and a microphone.

In the above embodiment, the time switch is described as having either a sensor unit or a sensor information acquisition unit, but the present invention is not limited to this and may have both a sensor unit and a sensor information acquisition unit. The control unit may determine which program to execute preferentially when the operation periods of two or more programs overlap, for example, based on the measurement results acquired from the sensor unit and the measurement results of an external sensor unit acquired via the sensor information acquisition unit.

The control unit in the above embodiments may also determine (select) a program based on two or more measurement results (e.g., temperature and humidity) acquired by the sensor unit.

In addition, the number of programs that overlap during the overlapping period in the above embodiments may be three or more.

In the above embodiments, each component may be configured with dedicated hardware, or may be realized by executing a software program suitable for each component. Each component may be realized by a program execution unit such as a CPU or processor reading and executing a software program recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory.

The order in which each step is performed in the flowchart is merely an example to specifically explain the present invention, and orders other than those described above may also be used. Also, some of the steps may be performed simultaneously (in parallel) with other steps, and some of the steps may not be performed.

The division of functional blocks in the block diagram is just one example, and multiple functional blocks may be realized as one functional block, one functional block may be divided into multiple blocks, or some functions may be transferred to other functional blocks. In addition, the functions of multiple functional blocks with similar functions may be processed in parallel or in a time-shared manner by a single piece of hardware or software.

In addition, each component described in the above embodiment may be realized as software, or may be realized as an LSI, which is typically an integrated circuit. These may be individually integrated into one chip, or may be integrated into one chip to include some or all of them. Here, LSI is used, but depending on the degree of integration, it may be called IC, system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI. In addition, the method of integration is not limited to LSI, and may be realized with a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor. After LSI manufacture, a programmable FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or a reconfigurable processor that can reconfigure the connection or setting of the circuit cells inside the LSI may be used. Furthermore, if an integrated circuit technology that replaces LSI appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology or a different derived technology, it is natural that the components may be integrated using that technology.

A system LSI is an ultra-multifunctional LSI manufactured by integrating multiple processing units on a single chip, and is specifically a computer system that includes a microprocessor, ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. Computer programs are stored in the ROM. The system LSI achieves its functions when the microprocessor operates according to the computer program.

Another aspect of the present invention may be a computer program that causes a computer to execute each of the characteristic steps included in the time switch control method shown in any one of Figures 3 and 11 to 13.

Also, for example, the program may be a program to be executed by a computer. Another aspect of the present invention may be a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium on which such a program is recorded. For example, such a program may be recorded on a recording medium and distributed or circulated. For example, the distributed program may be installed in a device having another processor, and the program may be executed by that processor, thereby making it possible to cause that device to perform each of the above processes.

10, 10a Time switch 12 Switch unit 13 Setting reception unit (first acquisition unit)
14 Display unit 15 Storage unit 16 Control unit 18 Communication unit (transmission unit)
19 Sensor unit 20 Sensor information acquisition unit (second acquisition unit)

Claims (16)

A switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source;
a storage unit that stores a plurality of programs for executing the interval function;
a first acquisition unit that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed with priority among the plurality of programs;
A control unit that controls opening and closing of the switch unit,
the control unit, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program ;
Further comprising a sensor for measuring the surrounding environment;
The control unit further selects the one program based on a measurement result obtained from the sensor.
Time switch. A switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source;
a storage unit that stores a plurality of programs for executing the interval function;
a first acquisition unit that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed with priority among the plurality of programs;
A control unit that controls opening and closing of the switch unit,
the control unit, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
A second acquisition unit that acquires a measurement result from a sensor that measures the surrounding environment,
The control unit further selects the one program based on the measurement result acquired via the second acquisition unit.
Time switch. The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the first acquisition unit acquires the priority information by accepting an operation for setting the priority information. The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the first acquisition unit acquires the priority information via communication. The time switch according to claim 1 , further comprising a display unit that displays information indicating said one program during said overlapping period. The time switch according to claim 1 , further comprising a transmitting unit that transmits information indicating the one program to an external device during the overlapping period. The plurality of programs are each assigned a different program number;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having a lower program number;
The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit selects, during the overlapping period, a program having a smallest program number among the two or more programs as the one program. A start time is set for each of the plurality of programs;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having an earlier start time;
The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit selects, as the one program, a program having an earliest start time among the two or more programs during the overlapping period. A start time is set for each of the plurality of programs;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program that is to be started later;
The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit selects, as the one program, a program having a latest start time among the two or more programs during the overlapping period. the priority information includes prioritizing a specific program among a plurality of programs;
The time switch according to claim 1 , wherein the control unit selects the specific program from among the two or more programs as the one program during the overlapping period. A switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source;
a storage unit that stores a plurality of programs for executing the interval function;
a first acquisition unit that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed with priority among the plurality of programs;
A control unit that controls opening and closing of the switch unit,
the control unit, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
the plurality of programs include a first program whose operation period is a first period, and a second program whose operation period partially overlaps with the first period, and whose operation period has a start time within the first period and an end time within a second period that is after the first period;
the first program has a program number lower than that of the second program;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having a smaller program number,
The control unit selects, as the first program, the first program having the smaller program number from the first program and the second program during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, and controls the opening and closing of the switch unit with the first program during the first period, and controls the switch unit with the second program switched from the first program during a period following the overlapping period in the second period.
Time switch. A switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source;
a storage unit that stores a plurality of programs for executing the interval function;
a first acquisition unit that acquires priority information regarding a program that is to be executed with priority among the plurality of programs;
A control unit that controls opening and closing of the switch unit,
the control unit, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selects one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controls opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
the plurality of programs include a first program, the operation period of which is a first period, and a second program, the operation period of which is a second period that includes the first period;
the first program has a program number lower than that of the second program;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having a smaller program number,
The control unit selects, as the first program, the first program having the smaller program number among the first program and the second program, during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, and controls the switch unit with the first program during the overlapping period in the first period, and controls the switch unit with the second program switched from the first program during the period after the overlapping period in the first period.
Time switch. obtaining priority information regarding a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs that are stored in a storage unit and that execute an interval function;
and controlling opening and closing of a switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source,
the controlling step includes, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selecting one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controlling opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program ;
Furthermore, the one program is selected based on a measurement result obtained from a sensor that measures the surrounding environment.
How to control a time switch. obtaining priority information regarding a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs that are stored in a storage unit and that execute an interval function;
and controlling opening and closing of a switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source,
the controlling step includes, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selecting one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controlling opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
Further, the one program is selected based on a measurement result acquired via an acquisition unit that acquires the measurement result from a sensor that measures the surrounding environment.
How to control a time switch. obtaining priority information regarding a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs that are stored in a storage unit and that execute an interval function;
and controlling opening and closing of a switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source,
the controlling step includes, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selecting one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controlling opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
the plurality of programs include a first program whose operation period is a first period, and a second program whose operation period partially overlaps with the first period, and whose operation period has a start time within the first period and an end time within a second period that is after the first period;
the first program has a program number lower than that of the second program;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having a smaller program number,
The controlling step includes selecting the first program having the smaller program number from among the first program and the second program as the first program during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, controlling the opening and closing of the switch unit with the first program during the first period, and controlling the switch unit with the second program switched from the first program during a period following the overlapping period in the second period.
How to control a time switch. obtaining priority information regarding a program to be executed with priority among a plurality of programs that are stored in a storage unit and that execute an interval function;
and controlling opening and closing of a switch unit that opens and closes an electrical connection between the load and the power source,
the controlling step includes, when operation periods of two or more of the plurality of programs overlap, selecting one program from the two or more programs to be executed during an overlapping period in which the operation periods overlap based on the priority information, and controlling opening and closing of the switch unit during the overlapping period based on the selected one program;
the plurality of programs include a first program, the operation period of which is a first period, and a second program, the operation period of which is a second period that includes the first period;
the first program has a program number lower than that of the second program;
the priority information includes giving priority to a program having a smaller program number,
The controlling step includes selecting, as the first program, the first program having the smaller program number among the first program and the second program, during an overlapping period in which the first period and the second period overlap, and controlling the switch unit with the first program during the overlapping period in the first period, and controlling the switch unit with the second program switched from the first program during a period after the overlapping period in the first period.
How to control a time switch.

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